Mani Ratnam and Kamal Haasan’s much-anticipated reunion after 36 years has finally materialized in the form of ‘Thug Life,’ a pan-Indian film set for release on June 5. Music composed by Oscar-winner A.R. Rahman, the film boasts a stellar cast including Silambarasan T.R., Joju George, Trisha, Nassar, Ashok Selvan, Abhirami, Aishwarya Lekshmi, and Sanya Malhotra. Kamal Haasan plays Rangaraya Sakthivel Nayakkar, a character that has already sparked major buzz. Their earlier collaboration, ‘Nayakan’ (1987), is considered one of Indian cinema’s most iconic films, and the anticipation around this new venture is immense.Early review declares a cult classic in the makingAhead of the global release, the first review of ‘Thug Life’ by social media film critic Umair Sandhu has gone viral. After watching the Hindi-dubbed version in Mumbai during its censor screening, Sandhu tweeted that the film is a “cult classic thriller” loaded with power-packed performances and gripping action. He particularly praised the chemistry and screen presence of Kamal Haasan and STR, calling their scenes “goosebump-inducing.” Umair Sandhu also called the AR Rahman-Mani Ratnam combination “deadly” and rated the film 3.5 out of 5 stars.Controversy strikes in Karnataka over language remarkMeanwhile, the film has stirred controversy in Karnataka, where Kannada groups are protesting its release over a past remark by Kamal about the Tamil origins of the Kannada language. They have demanded an apology, but supporters of Kamal, including members of his MNM party, have rallied behind him with posters and statements asserting that no apology will be made. Kamal Haasan took legal steps to ensure the film’s release in the state, but it failed and the team has paused the film’s release in Karnataka till June 10.Music, momentum & massive hype drive the film forwardDespite the challenges, ‘Thug Life’ is gaining huge traction. With Rahman’s chart-topping soundtrack and sky-high ticket bookings, industry watchers believe the film could replicate the success of ‘Vikram.’ The controversy may just be fueling more interest serving as unintentional but effective free promotion.
